Thief stole £46 worth of sweets from Sunderland Wilko store

A SWEET-TOOTHED shoplifter seen “acting suspiciously” in the confectionary aisle of Wilko’s has admitted theft.

Keith Pulling, 35, was in the chain’s Fawcett Street store on December 27, when he decided to treat himself to £46.42 worth of sweets, Sunderland magistrates heard.

Prosecutor John McGlone said: “A security guard saw the defendant acting suspiciously, placing items in a plastic carrier bag. He recognised the defendant as someone he has known for a number of years.”

Pulling, of Gray Road, Hendon, was arrested and admitted theft and a charge of absconding on February 11.

Ian Cassidy, defending, said Pulling had turned to drugs after a relationship break-up.

He was sentenced to a 12-month supervision order and nine months of drug treatment. He was also banned from Wilko’s for 30 days and told to pay £85 costs.